JAKARTA - Ensuring that children eat healthy snacks is not only a matter of taste, but also the nutritional content. Proper snacks not only please the tongue, but also make a big contribution to children's growth and development.
Nutritionist Dr. dr. Lucy Widasari, M.Si reminded the importance of choosing snacks that are not only delicious, but also contain balanced nutrition.
He gave an example of several choices of snacks that can be served at home, such as cut fruit, boiled corn, steamed sweet potatoes, tempe balls, milk-based snacks without additional sugar, and mini vegetables.
According to Lucy, this type of snack tends to be liked by children because it looks attractive and tastes still delicious. In addition, the food contains essential fiber, vitamins, and minerals that help optimal growth, much more useful than snacks loaded with sugar, salt, and artificial dyes that can have a negative impact on children's health.
He also emphasized that the role of parents is very important as an example in a healthy diet. Encouraging children to be involved in choosing food ingredients and preparing healthy snacks can increase their interest in healthy foods.
"Children who are involved when choosing or arranging snacks, such as compiling pieces of fruit on their plates, tend to be more enthusiastic about eating them," said the doctor who graduated from Hasanuddin University, as quoted by ANTARA.
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Lucy added that utilizing locally nutritionally rich foods can be a strategic step to strengthen family food security. Vegetables such as kelor and spinach, as well as carbohydrate sources such as cassava and corn, or protein from tempeh and freshwater, can be processed into a daily healthy menu.
He emphasized that a healthy diet is the result of a long process, not something instant. Consistent and aware of the importance of health will form a generation of children who are strong, healthy, and intelligent.
'Gizi is not only about what is consumed, but also about the values and habits taught from an early age. This must be part of everyday life," said Lucy.
He also mentioned that simple activities such as eating with family can be a means of learning. Children learn about gratitude, the value of togetherness, and responsibility for their bodies.
No less important, children also need to get used to a clean lifestyle, such as washing their hands before and after eating. According to Lucy, small habits that are carried out regularly and exemplified by parents will be a strong foundation in shaping a healthy, independent, and environmentally caring person.
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